Log and wooden surfaces lower heart rate and reduce stress

BlogFebruary 12, 2019

A house built of pine logs has many advantages. As a surface material, pine wood is a natural material corresponding to the M1 classification, which means that it does not release harmful emissions into the room air. The surface of pine wood is naturally antibacterial, which in turn prevents the spreading of pathogens in log buildings.

But did you know that according to studies, wood as surface material has similar psychological effects as wandering in the forest?

The gentle touch of wood

Everyone knows that wood surface makes the home feel warm and cozy, but the touch of the wood surface is also more experiential and physiologically gentler than other surfaces. Touching aluminum, plastic, and steel causes a rise in blood pressure as a reaction to stress in the body. Touching wood surface does not have the same effect.

Indoors, wood has a calming effect. It lowers the stress level of the body and improves sleep quality. Even green plants placed in a room furnished in white had no similar effect in the study.

Wooden surfaces lower heart rate and reduce stress

The positive physiological effects of wood have also been found in schools. In a wood furnished classroom, pupils’ stress levels as measured by heart rate fluctuations, fall shortly after entering school and does not return. In a normal classroom, mild stress continued throughout the day. Also, the subjective feeling of stress was lower for pupils in a wooden furnished classroom than in a regular classroom.

According to observations made in elderly care homes, the use of wood materials increased the interaction between the elderly and the environment. Thus, wood as an interior element, even has an impact on social behaviour and perception of the environment.

At best, wood construction and the use of wood as an interior element can therefore affect overall well being. Log houses are known to have good indoor air due to the breathability of the log, in addition to the fact that log is inherently antibacterial and thus prevents pathogens. The soundscape of a log house is quiet, which adds to the comfort of living. In addition, the effect of wood on the level of physiological stress, has been shown to be positive.